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Show 428 THE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. caresses ; but he, nevertheless, feels all his former affection for her returning, and is on the brink of becoming a victim to the magic influence of her charms. Zara grows more energetic and passionate in her appeal ; she reproaches him with his cruelty, which is about to drive her to despair and death. She affects to retire, but the King stops her for a moment by an affectionate gesture. She appears resolved to die, and will not listen to his entreaties to live ; she makes another motion to rush out, when the King hastens towards her, and almost on his knees conjures her not to fly from him. Joy returns to the bosom of Zara at this sight, and Morico expresses his rapture at the smiling prospect of a re-union between Alphonso and his mistress. T h e fascinated King at length expresses his determination that Zara shall be united to and reign with him ! H e gives orders to Morico, who hurries to execute them. Zara expresses the excess of her happiness, and vows to live and, if necessary, to die for her King. Alphonso informs her that his friends have calmed the irritated people, and they have now nothing to fear from popular clamour. H e places the ambitious Zara on the throne, and shares it with her. Morico, at the head of a troop of his friends and a few courtiers, appears, and all render homage to Zara. The re-union of the lovers is celebrated by a splendid fete, in the progress of which, Zara orders' Morico to keep a strict watch upon their enemies, and to take all necessary precautions for her future safety. She instructs him also to compel Fanes to quit the court, and to secure the person of their greatest foe, the venerable Garcias. Morico testifies his satisfaction at the idea of revenging himself, and departs unperceived. At the conclusion of the Divertissement, Alphonso and Zara retire, followed by their suite. |
